
After years in the planning, the Newquay Strategic Route (NSR) officially opened on Tuesday. The new road connects the A392 at Hendra roundabout to the Duchy of Cornwall development at Nansledan.
Now designated the A3059, the NSR links Hendra with St Columb and Trevenson Road. The final section provides a new route between the south and east of the town and includes a new crossing over the Newquay to Par railway branch line.
Cornwall Council says the route is intended to improve traffic flow in Newquay by increasing road capacity to support new housing and journeys within the town and enables the development of new homes, community facilities, and a replacement household waste recycling centre.
More than 4,500 homes are expected to be delivered by the Duchy of Cornwall and adjoining landowners, including those already built at Nansledan.
The NSR is also expected to support businesses in Nansledan by improving access and footfall. It will front a new high street called Market Street, which is set to begin construction this year.
The road forms part of a broader network of new walking and cycling routes in west Newquay. It will allow for the closure of Trencreek and Chapel railway crossings to vehicles, while keeping them open for pedestrians and cyclists. A network of off-road walking and cycling paths has been created beneath the new road in the valley, linking the town centre to eastern residential areas. Cycle and footpaths also run alongside the road.
Phil Mason, strategic director for sustainable growth and development at Cornwall Council, said: “The delivery of the NSR has been a long-standing aim of the Newquay Growth Area, including Nansledan, and could not have happened without the support and commitment of all the delivery partners, including Network Rail and the Duchy of Cornwall. This new route demonstrates our commitment to building the infrastructure to support inward investment and much needed housing for local residents.”
Earlier sections of the route were delivered by the Duchy of Cornwall after Cornwall Council secured Government funding. These include the Rialton Link from Nansledan to the A3059 and the Western Arm over Trevenson Road.
Sam Kirkness, Nansledan development manager at the Duchy of Cornwall, said: “We are delighted to see the completion of the Newquay Strategic Route, which marks a major milestone for Nansledan and the wider Newquay area. This vital infrastructure will transform connectivity and unlock a range of benefits while bringing increased vibrancy to Nansledan. We’re proud to have worked in partnership to help deliver a scheme that will benefit local residents, businesses and future generations.”
The final one-kilometre stretch was built by Cormac on behalf of the council. It includes a 140-metre causeway and two new bridges – one over the valley and another over the railway line, delivered in partnership with Network Rail.
Bogdan Lupu, Network Rail industry programme director, said: “It’s exciting to see the Newquay Strategic Route open and we’re proud to have played a critical role in building a new bridge over the Newquay branch line. This project is another great example of partners working together to benefit the local community.”